Members of Government distance themselves from sentiments expressed by former President Jagdeo – 16th Apr 2013

Some members of the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic Government is seemingly distancing themselves from some sentiments expressed by former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Speaking at the funeral Service of former Minister, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud last Thursday, Jagdeo said there appears to have been a resurgence of some form of prejudice against Guyanese of East Indian descent, primarily by opposition political parties, which he said are accusing the PPP/C of showing favouritism towards this section of the population.

But according to Minister Clement Rohee, who is a senior executive member of the ruling party, Mr. Jagdeo has a right as a private citizen to comment on any issues he sees fit.

Minister Rohee also recalled that former President, Janet Jagan, also had spoken on matters whilst out of office, and there was no similar rejection.

Stabroek News in its Monday’s editorial, likened the role of past Presidents to a statesman, who from time to time, would offer wisdom gleaned during their years at the helm.

The Newspapers said, that it appears that the former President has a different view of his role i.e. to whip up societal angst in the interest of the PPP’s electoral fortunes and for his own purposes.

President Jagdeo had since blasted the Newspaper’s editorial chiding the newspaper for what he calls is ‘selective journalism’.